Union Government Should Increase Funding for R&D, Says Minister
On December 10, 2025, during a significant event at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, T.R.B. Rajaa, the Minister for Industries, emphasized the urgent need for the Union government to enhance its funding for research and development (R&D). The minister’s remarks came during the inauguration of the Conclave on Safe and Trusted AI, organized by the Centre for Responsible AI (CeRAI) at IIT Madras.
Importance of Increased Funding
Minister Rajaa articulated that increased funding is essential for fostering innovation and ensuring that India remains competitive in the global technology landscape. He stated, “We really have to look at AI with an open mind,” highlighting the necessity of a progressive approach to artificial intelligence (AI) and its applications.
Democratizing AI
One of the key themes of Rajaa’s address was the concept of democratizing AI. He asserted that AI should be accessible to everyone, not just a select group of individuals or organizations. “For us, democratising AI is key,” he noted, indicating that the Tamil Nadu government’s vision is to position the state as the country’s hub for AI development.
Global Context and Collaborations
The minister’s comments also underscored the importance of international collaboration in the field of AI. Deepak Goel, Group Coordinator of Cyber Laws at the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), expressed hope for increased discussions with experts from other countries, including Japan and Brazil. This collaboration is seen as vital for sharing knowledge and best practices in AI development.
Upcoming Events
In a related announcement, Mohammed Y. Safirulla, Director of MeitY, revealed that India will host the Impact AI Summit from February 15 to 20, 2026, in New Delhi. This summit aims to bring together global leaders and experts to discuss the future of AI and its implications for various sectors.
Focus on Safe AI Solutions
Balaraman Ravindran, Head of the Wadhwani School of Data Science and AI at IIT Madras, shared insights about the two-day conclave. He stated that the primary goal was to explore AI solutions that can be safely implemented, particularly for the Global South. The discussions are expected to address the challenges and opportunities that AI presents in developing countries.
Conclusion
The call for increased funding for R&D and the democratization of AI reflects a broader recognition of the transformative potential of technology in society. As India strives to become a leader in AI, the government’s commitment to enhancing research funding and fostering international collaboration will be crucial in shaping a future where technology benefits all.
Note: This article is based on information available as of December 2025 and reflects the views expressed during the IIT Madras conclave on Safe AI.
